The IPL 2025 season kicks off with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens. However, rain and thunderstorms could disrupt the match, as Kolkata’s weather forecast predicts light to moderate rainfall. Eden Gardens, known for high-scoring games, may witness big totals, with teams eyeing the 300-run mark this season. The match starts at 7:30 PM IST, preceded by a grand opening ceremony featuring Shreya Ghoshal and Disha Patani. Fans eagerly await an electrifying start, hoping the weather doesn’t play spoilsport in this much-anticipated clash.

Elon Musk responded to the controversy surrounding his AI chatbot, Grok, and its allegedly "brutally honest" replies about India with a simple laughing emoji. Grok, developed by Musk’s company xAI, faced criticism after users shared responses that some found controversial or offensive regarding India. The debate sparked discussions about AI bias, free speech, and responsible AI development. While some defended Grok’s candid nature, others accused it of misrepresenting facts. Musk’s lighthearted reaction further fueled online debates, with critics questioning his stance on AI accountability and cultural sensitivity in global markets.

The Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government has amended the 1909 Excise Act, lifting a 116-year-old ban on the sale of country liquor in areas near tea gardens. The decision, aimed at boosting state revenue and regulating alcohol trade, has sparked concerns over potential social and safety implications, particularly for women. Critics argue that increased alcohol accessibility could lead to a rise in crimes against women and domestic violence. The opposition has strongly condemned the move, while the government insists it will implement strict regulations to prevent misuse. The amendment marks a significant shift in state excise policies.  

Heavyweight boxing icon George Foreman has died at 76, his family announced. Foreman won Olympic gold in 1968 and became a two-time world heavyweight champion, famously defeating Joe Frazier in 1973. He lost his title to Muhammad Ali in the historic 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle." After retiring in 1977 to become a preacher, he made a stunning comeback in 1987 and, at 45, became the oldest heavyweight champion. Beyond boxing, he found immense success with the George Foreman Grill, selling over 100 million units. His legacy as a fighter, businessman, and preacher leaves an enduring mark on history.

In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has announced the revocation of temporary legal status for approximately 532,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. These individuals had previously been granted entry under the CHNV (Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans) parole program initiated during the Biden administration. Effective April 24, this revocation terminates their work permits and protection from deportation. The Department of Homeland Security has provided a 30-day window, starting March 25, for affected migrants to self-deport using the CBP Home smartphone app. Failure to comply may result in arrest and forcible removal. This move aligns with President Trump's broader immigration crackdown, raising concerns about the future of these migrants and potential legal challenges.   

On March 14, 2025, a significant amount of unaccounted cash was reportedly discovered at the official residence of Justice Yashwant Varma, a sitting judge of the Delhi High Court. This incident has reignited attention on his alleged involvement in the 2018 Simbhaoli Sugar Mill fraud case. Prior to his judicial appointment, Justice Varma served as a non-executive director of Simbhaoli Sugars Ltd, a company accused of misappropriating a ₹97.85 crore loan intended for farmers, leading to a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) FIR in which he was listed as the tenth accused. The recent cash discovery has prompted the Supreme Court to initiate a preliminary inquiry and order his transfer to the Allahabad High Court. Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya of the Delhi High Court expressed shock over the incident, underscoring the judiciary's commitment to integrity. 

On March 22, 2025, India strongly opposed China’s decision to establish two new administrative counties in Hotan Prefecture, parts of which include areas illegally occupied in Ladakh. Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, reaffirmed in the Lok Sabha that India has never accepted China’s illegal claims or occupation of its territory. He stated that the move does not change India’s stance on its sovereignty. The Indian government has lodged a formal diplomatic protest, asserting its commitment to protecting territorial integrity against any unilateral attempts by Beijing to alter the status quo.  

As of March 21, 2025, Nagpur police have arrested 14 more individuals, raising the total arrests to 105, including 10 juveniles, following violent clashes triggered by rumors of a 'chadar' with holy inscriptions being burned during VHP protests. The violence injured 34 police officers and five civilians, with significant property damage. Authorities have registered three new FIRs, including sedition charges against Fahim Khan of the Minorities Democratic Party. Curfew remains in place in several areas as police deploy 18 special teams to identify and apprehend nearly 1,000 suspects caught on CCTV.  

London’s Heathrow Airport has reopened after an 18-hour shutdown caused by a fire at a nearby electrical substation, leading to a widespread power outage. The disruption resulted in the cancellation of more than 1,000 flights, impacting approximately 200,000 passengers globally. The first British Airways flight landed just before sunset on Friday, signaling the gradual restoration of services. Authorities have ruled out foul play, but investigations into the fire’s cause are ongoing. While full operations are expected to resume by Saturday, passengers are advised to check with airlines as delays and cancellations may persist.    

A 12-hour Karnataka bandh is underway today, March 22, led by Kannada Okkoota to protest the alleged assault of a KSRTC bus conductor in Belagavi for not speaking Marathi. The incident has reignited Kannada-Marathi tensions over the disputed Belagavi region. While the Karnataka government opposes the bandh due to ongoing student exams, KSRTC and BMTC unions have extended support, affecting public transport. Schools and colleges are closed, but essential services remain functional. Security has been tightened in sensitive areas to maintain order, highlighting the deep-rooted language and territorial disputes between Karnataka and Maharashtra.